:Common Name

Leptospermum petersonii

:Scientific Name

:Introduction

Leptospermum petersonii, widely known as the lemon-scented tea tree, is a shrub or small tree native to eastern Australia. It is characterized by its thin, fibrous to flaky bark and narrow elliptic to lance-shaped leaves that release a strong lemon fragrance when crushed. The plant bears white flowers and produces fruit that can remain on the branches for several years. Owing to its attractive appearance and aroma, it is frequently cultivated as an ornamental species, although in some regions it is considered a minor environmental weed.

: Details

Leptospermum petersonii develops as a shrub or small tree, usually reaching heights of around 5 m or more. Its stems are covered with thin, coarse bark that peels in fibrous or flaky layers, while the branchlets are smooth and feature a slight flange beneath the leaf bases. Fresh shoots commonly show reddish to purplish tones. The leaves are elliptic to narrowly lanceolate in shape, typically measuring 20–40 mm in length and 2–5 mm in width. They are sessile, strongly aromatic, and lack a distinct leaf stalk.